Elder Schema-Igumen Savva Ostapenko of the Pskov-Pechersky Monastery

In no case, under any circumstances, do not be discouraged, do not despair. Despondency kills the energy necessary to receive the Holy Spirit in the heart. The dejected loses prayer and dies for spiritual labors. Know that in a moment of despondency and despair the Lord does not leave you, but you leave the Lord. Even though it was very grievous to you, but call in mind the Lord Jesus Christ, who lives in your heart. He is waiting for your call. Do not be discouraged and do not bother with life. It is unbearable only for the wicked, and whoever believes in Jesus Christ and trusts in Him, should rejoice and cherish life. Our earthly life is necessary, as preparation for eternal life: that we glorify God here, bless our neighbors and reach the Eternal Kingdom in the narrow way indicated in the Gospel. Life is given to us not for earthly joy: "Blessed are weeping," and not laughing.

Elder Schema-Igumen Savva Ostapenko 
of the Pskov-Pechersky Monastery